Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Dec 28: Mangaluru City Police have made significant strides in tackling drug-related crimes in 2024, thanks to rigorous enforcement actions and extensive awareness initiatives.
Enforcement actions (2022-2024)
Out of 2200 cases registered over the past three years, 216 involved drug peddling, and 1984 were related to drug consumption. A total of 2829 arrests were made, including 11 foreign nationals.
In 2024 alone, 1090 cases were registered, marking a sharp rise in the crackdown on drug-related offenses compared to previous years.
The Kavoor Police Station reported the highest number of drug consumption cases, with 94, while Ullal Police Station led in peddling cases with 10. Other areas such as Kavoor, Ullal, North, Kankanady, and Konaje saw a significant number of drug-related incidents.
Drug seizures (2022-2024)
Over the past three years, police seized 658.963 kg of ganja and 10.508 kg of synthetic drugs, valued at Rs 9.82 crore. In 2024, synthetic drug seizures rose by 314%, with the value of drugs seized increasing by 339% compared to 2023. Notable seizures in 2024 included:
- Ganja: 191.073 kg
- MDMA: 7.305 kg
- Cocaine: 81 grams
- Methamphetamine: 39.653 grams
Arrests in 2024
In 2024, 1372 arrests were made, including 4 foreign nationals. Some significant seizures included:
- CEN Police Station: 120.110 kg ganja valued at Rs 28 lakh, 677 grams of MDMA worth Rs 3.38 crore
- Mangaluru East PS: 6.310 kg MDMA
- Mangaluru South PS: 300 grams of hydro ganja worth Rs 30 lakh
Convictions in 2024
Seven individuals were convicted in 2024 for their involvement in drug-related crimes across various police stations. A total of 169 individuals pleaded guilty in drug consumption cases, highlighting the effectiveness of the prosecution.
Awareness programmes
Mangaluru City Police conducted 212 awareness programmes across 16 police stations, reaching more than 1.2 lac students, teachers, and citizens. Over 8000 people participated in drug awareness drives, and 67+ Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and colonies were targeted, covering more than 5000 residents.
Special operations
- Jail Search (July 25): 29 mobile phones and other contraband items were seized.
- Surprise Drug Test (July 27): 120 prisoners were tested, and 40 tested positive for drugs. Cases have been booked against them.
Drugs destroyed
A total of 53.658 kilos of ganja, worth Rs 13.59 lac, was destroyed as per court orders.
Action against repeat offenders
Stricter action has been taken against repeat offenders, including:
- Goonda Act: 3 persons
- Externment Orders: 28 persons
- Bond Orders: 123 persons
- Bond Forfeiture: 18 cases
The Mangaluru City Police's relentless efforts to combat drug-related offenses have shown notable success in 2024, with continued focus on both peddlers and consumers.